tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50526046148383522622024-03-18T22:05:30.201-05:00Ocean of Stitchesknitting, crochet, sewing, spinning, textiles, fiber technology, art experiments, textile history, stuff.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-37051223917609211482014-12-12T10:54:00.000-06:002014-12-12T10:54:14.096-06:00Secret Project: Revealed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BGt_Mq0MaHQW1AA4-FakbFR1T92ymH_cq_Jy822Qn7ib1hs6mWJklyVmx2-wUo4j_kL71GCdxpc6wUB5MbGReCeYBfcsW6DTn940v6gb6f21EYtz2TP2HYsZPm-ZoITvDsNaEMD93ew/s1600/IMG_2123_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BGt_Mq0MaHQW1AA4-FakbFR1T92ymH_cq_Jy822Qn7ib1hs6mWJklyVmx2-wUo4j_kL71GCdxpc6wUB5MbGReCeYBfcsW6DTn940v6gb6f21EYtz2TP2HYsZPm-ZoITvDsNaEMD93ew/s1600/IMG_2123_2.jpg" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
It has been so hard NOT talking about this project. Back in October, Jimmy Beans Wool contacted me about dyeing up a yarn for their 12 days of Yarnmas collection, and I dove right in. <br />
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You can find the yarn <a href="http://www.jimmybeanswool.com/knitting/yarn/YarnCarnival/HighWire3Ply.asp?showLarge=true&specPCVID=61010" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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I had to think hard about how I could possibly interpret the 12th day of Christmas - Twelve Drummers Drumming. I went and looked at a ton of kids' picture books with the song in them, and other children's books with Christmas themes (we have a lovely version of The Tin Soldier that helped along the way). I wanted to dye with the uniforms, the instrument, the music and rhythm in mind. What a lot of choices to make! I finally landed on a very vibrant red combined with a pale silver splashed with a bold blue. I let them know what I had planned:<br />
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<b> </b>"I wanted the yarn to reflect both the drummer - the uniform a brilliant
blue with silver trim, and the drum - a splash of vibrant cheering red
to ward off the cold nights of winter. I also thought about the
drumming, the rhythm of the drums reflected in the colors - the steady,
deep beat of the red against the counterpoint of the silver, punctuated
with the bright blue tapping a solo across the yarn."<br />
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I hope you check it out and enjoy!<br />
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Ana <br />
<br />Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-62961004121522422892013-07-07T18:40:00.002-05:002013-07-07T18:53:38.955-05:00New patterns and new pursuits!My goodness! It has been forever!<br />
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Just a heads up - I've got a bunch of new patterns out and ones I am currently working on. Here's a fun one. Orange Crush Market Bag. One skein of yarn, expands like crazy. I seriously put a whole shelf full of yarn into it with room for more. And then I emptied it and folded it up and put it in my pocket. It is specially designed to expand sideways instead of down, so that it doesn't drag. Nifty, eh?<br />
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Lookie!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0kqN-b58d90cXTaFLlqKvriKlLlx3QYMqoV2UY-0O31fh4C3e6Aw0JP1F-A_jnlK1gwxJv1tKWidIJvSKDKfJRxL9lIZx31DDzSBAl36RbsRxBqeMDU9GcltucRqvYafJx6WnnTzPzE/s1600/orange+crush+big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0kqN-b58d90cXTaFLlqKvriKlLlx3QYMqoV2UY-0O31fh4C3e6Aw0JP1F-A_jnlK1gwxJv1tKWidIJvSKDKfJRxL9lIZx31DDzSBAl36RbsRxBqeMDU9GcltucRqvYafJx6WnnTzPzE/s320/orange+crush+big.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
You can get it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/orange-crush-market-bag" target="_blank">here on Ravelry.</a> <br />
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Also check out Desert Marigold <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/desert-marigold" target="_blank">here on Ravelry</a> - a Delta crochet infinity loop scarf, also in less than one skein of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/yarn-carnival-high-wire-3-ply" target="_blank">Yarn Carnival High Wire 3-Ply</a>.<br />
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Yarn Carnival is my new pursuit, and what has been keeping me incredibly busy. It is an Austin, TX based indy-dye yarn company, but I also have my own line of knitting accessories as well. Currently, the yarn and accessories can be bought at Hill Country Weavers and The Knitting Nest in Austin, TX, and the accessories can also be found at The Lucky Ewe in New Braunfels, TX. I just bought the domain name for my own website <a href="http://www.yarncarnival.com./">www.yarncarnival.com.</a> I'm building the site now, but it will be up and running soon!<br />
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<br />Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-25204955854552149762012-11-10T08:33:00.004-06:002012-11-10T08:34:15.029-06:00I get to guest blog!Now, I know I've been less than loquacious on this little blog of mine, but I'm here to apologize. To mark my return to blogging (hopefully), I am this weekend's guest blogger on the UK Crochet Addicts blog. Please go check out my post and see all of the lovely things that Sue writes about!<br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-family: '.HelveticaNeueUI'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 19px; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://crochetaddictcfs.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/guest-blogger-week-38-ocean-of-stitches.html" target="_blank">http://crochetaddictcfs.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/guest-blogger-week-38-ocean-of-stitches.html</a></span>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-18651533992882115482012-07-22T16:44:00.003-05:002012-07-22T16:45:10.326-05:00Solar Flare<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9BRVP-e7ORiDomYf_UkqOxpUZptymhim_vnXR-fM1eqyExAGY3kwjPZMVEcdJFRFOHIr6peyqD8U0K34Lo_IwNwedx6QBcLxMW_eaZNA9HqhhmCr748h78fpt3EqWU94nE1PBnAWQTw/s1600/IMG_0246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9BRVP-e7ORiDomYf_UkqOxpUZptymhim_vnXR-fM1eqyExAGY3kwjPZMVEcdJFRFOHIr6peyqD8U0K34Lo_IwNwedx6QBcLxMW_eaZNA9HqhhmCr748h78fpt3EqWU94nE1PBnAWQTw/s320/IMG_0246.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
While teaching my summer away, I have designed this simple market tote - Solar Flare. Made in Noro Taiyo (2 balls), the granny square front and back are done in continuous rounds - only 2 ends to weave in per square! The bottom, sides, and handle are all one long piece done in long rows - only 6 of them - and use the leftovers from each of the 2 balls of yarn. The top of the handle is tapered to fit on your shoulder well. It is bright, lightweight, strong, and fast to make. A couple of afternoons, really. Three handle lengths - long to go across the body, medium to hang off the shoulder, and short to hang off an arm. Only $4, and a lot of fun to make. Enjoy! You can buy it on Ravelry with the button below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEpBD7UvwYi-okMid9iA725fo1sYPUUsvrMtV7x5Liphf_5rpF1MkSDk0fsNFN2vecxPwxSbscZ2XgUbRRFoF5srb7QrCLenOeEvNcN4d1zMQsLKbX6Bb-lenXGMqi78qz8rZgl31Ck4/s1600/IMG_0245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEpBD7UvwYi-okMid9iA725fo1sYPUUsvrMtV7x5Liphf_5rpF1MkSDk0fsNFN2vecxPwxSbscZ2XgUbRRFoF5srb7QrCLenOeEvNcN4d1zMQsLKbX6Bb-lenXGMqi78qz8rZgl31Ck4/s320/IMG_0245.jpg" width="173" /></a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/110603" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a></div>
<br />Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-69484749126737718322012-05-30T22:35:00.000-05:002012-05-30T23:26:04.940-05:00I Love the Letter P<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUd5b69mX6gaLnFh4bXiDUsVzoVRJBYlZ6BnTNTj_8iGdQqivmD-ObMaTtMIpI0Cyj6iNsmUk3xDZ6HOHWXbm9mPbsK2JCqyH1RcgJ-SNxtcUMyF6d2y2fKfr9RerBco9djTHlGHN3OI/s1600/IMG_0092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUd5b69mX6gaLnFh4bXiDUsVzoVRJBYlZ6BnTNTj_8iGdQqivmD-ObMaTtMIpI0Cyj6iNsmUk3xDZ6HOHWXbm9mPbsK2JCqyH1RcgJ-SNxtcUMyF6d2y2fKfr9RerBco9djTHlGHN3OI/s320/IMG_0092.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
I have been working on a little e-book of children's sundresses. The previous dress I did, Poesie, will be included, and there will be an additional crocheted dress as well as 2 knit ones. The first of these new ones is Perhaps - A Smallish Sundress. (All the patterns in this e-book begin with the letter P. It is my favorite letter.) It is for advanced beginners (ones that know simple increases and decreases as well as knitting in the round.) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZ0-9OwDSnLmjo1PzTQ2YVgw-An5L8cr4obl5qSZRSrx9HP7ufoRw3Vrc8TSHTdC1JJU2mtCWkRur8cTUSgOpWIeB1P3aLIPRP_YgS0I2AWevAZfuYhdTiXnXDc9bW6j2sh2WXEqRXUM/s1600/IMG_0095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZ0-9OwDSnLmjo1PzTQ2YVgw-An5L8cr4obl5qSZRSrx9HP7ufoRw3Vrc8TSHTdC1JJU2mtCWkRur8cTUSgOpWIeB1P3aLIPRP_YgS0I2AWevAZfuYhdTiXnXDc9bW6j2sh2WXEqRXUM/s320/IMG_0095.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
It has a little button closure in the back. Because I love little buttons on little girls. Well, on anything really. Knitted top, fabric skirt. Easy peasy. Sizes 18 months - 8 years. With full instructions on sewing it all up. You can buy it on Ravelry for $5 here: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/105196"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-2931143370837408132012-01-11T17:03:00.000-06:002012-01-11T17:03:23.548-06:00A quick hello!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RcZParlWcmUIdCFOEYDuOLHPevtBfxS1rtXEK-Z2NAwh72KY_Wj2__aYGLIDBSE-YnlKpwCb9i3IZ_fvwnMmwfm_1ddn96QH74-_DKYdImIutkDzonhwF5OLG1ApRjT0sqxW7icjsLc/s1600/IMG_1578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RcZParlWcmUIdCFOEYDuOLHPevtBfxS1rtXEK-Z2NAwh72KY_Wj2__aYGLIDBSE-YnlKpwCb9i3IZ_fvwnMmwfm_1ddn96QH74-_DKYdImIutkDzonhwF5OLG1ApRjT0sqxW7icjsLc/s320/IMG_1578.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just a quick little hello!<br />
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I've been crazy busy writing and whipping up a lovely crochet shawl pattern that will debuting (in a collection that I also helped edit) this Friday at Vogue Live. As soon as it is live, I will be hooting up a storm about it, but I've been trying to not say anything about it. You don't know how difficult it has been! I can't shut up at the best of times.<br />
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Anyhow, I just got a little thrill today when a friend let me know that one of my patterns was mentioned in Alana Dakos' blog <a href="http://nevernotknitting.blogspot.com/">Never Not Knitting</a> as one she used for making a gift for a friend. Check out the little knitted owl on her post <a href="http://nevernotknitting.blogspot.com/2011/12/baby-owl-for-baby.html">here</a>. The pattern (seen above) is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/owls-two-ways-knit">Owls Two Ways</a>, and both the crochet version and the knitted version are on the same pattern. Yay for little owls!<br />
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<br />Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-7097701122033973862011-09-21T19:53:00.000-05:002011-09-21T19:54:59.571-05:00Crafty Little Day of the Dead Needle Case<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4fFxzCuQcpRclS98VHoPTUfZaAYfGTeWM7Wmtu6HpC6qxNUeAjnoUgw2pfHfvvijC8V8bsuyxFX-OuRNShYq6lEGr4X44YAd_mZo3wQFFQBc281jJC7fjeBQalG3lb4BO6ew6OlDivk/s1600/red+book+front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4fFxzCuQcpRclS98VHoPTUfZaAYfGTeWM7Wmtu6HpC6qxNUeAjnoUgw2pfHfvvijC8V8bsuyxFX-OuRNShYq6lEGr4X44YAd_mZo3wQFFQBc281jJC7fjeBQalG3lb4BO6ew6OlDivk/s320/red+book+front.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crafty Little Needle Case - Knit Version</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OPEN, SESAME!</td></tr>
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Here is my latest little pattern - the Crafty Little Needle Case. It will hold a lot of yarn needles and pins. This one is knit, and I chose a Day of the Dead theme for embellishing. It lends itself to lots of embellishing, I'll warn you. <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crafty-little-needle-case---knit-version">Available here on Ravelry.com FOR FREE!</a> Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plain little needle case</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting an applied I-cord makeover</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a name='more'></a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crafty-little-needle-case---knit-version"><br /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-16983516980873751642011-08-30T19:01:00.006-05:002011-08-30T19:12:19.489-05:00My Ships & Seaside - Finally done!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitAS_vBPgax86gwcXea4WGeZULN40hAdqGGFSt9YomKvLgB6WQuMrypZtJ5rvhHztBS5ZFOcN65oeBt8GL10zNrm1hHNbjRVe0ICxvO-OLIbGXlvPxeAoopbkY2AJmBMdMFydbhUeC8Y/s1600/DSC00180.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitAS_vBPgax86gwcXea4WGeZULN40hAdqGGFSt9YomKvLgB6WQuMrypZtJ5rvhHztBS5ZFOcN65oeBt8GL10zNrm1hHNbjRVe0ICxvO-OLIbGXlvPxeAoopbkY2AJmBMdMFydbhUeC8Y/s320/DSC00180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646804405761488162" border="0" /></a>Done, done, done! Well, I finished a few days ago, but this is the first time I've goten a chance to write about it since then.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEqPL5qwEX5VXXubRhbOsV_GiW37Yp9MjpkeaXh3uiry3tQLS2VOLOCUNTDyJ8NPx2Q-pmqT4KZJuR5nhJgrhi8Ojeaz0-PYXMSQaamdJQT2eqik9BvF0qew0glDPUIml4bB-eA_bc_s/s1600/DSC00185.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEqPL5qwEX5VXXubRhbOsV_GiW37Yp9MjpkeaXh3uiry3tQLS2VOLOCUNTDyJ8NPx2Q-pmqT4KZJuR5nhJgrhi8Ojeaz0-PYXMSQaamdJQT2eqik9BvF0qew0glDPUIml4bB-eA_bc_s/s320/DSC00185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646804197832242354" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0iKZBoeKERN8_jtzhCIGvu_P9d3XPgmltTLSMj8d1xGN7OyjbmtSqPfD2GjEASUkSPhWH04MjMA-Pil9OZTP09ra6CiinWlXOz8VheBYicM_fWJh6HoowUknv5P4FBtgYAz5eKtL53k/s1600/DSC00186.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0iKZBoeKERN8_jtzhCIGvu_P9d3XPgmltTLSMj8d1xGN7OyjbmtSqPfD2GjEASUkSPhWH04MjMA-Pil9OZTP09ra6CiinWlXOz8VheBYicM_fWJh6HoowUknv5P4FBtgYAz5eKtL53k/s320/DSC00186.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646803957561761874" border="0" /></a> As you see, the stripes go all the way around. It began with a provisional cast-on, and ended with a mega-session of Kitchener stitch. The pattern is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ships--seaside">Tiny Owl Knits - ships & seaside. </a>
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<br />I love it. No, wait, I adore it, I worship it, I am thrilled to sit by it's little feet. The pattern, that is. I am similarly entranced by my version. Darker, moodier, stormier.
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<br />I made it for a summer KAL in the Tiny Owl Knits group on Ravelry. I also made a prize for the raffle for those finishing by September 1. (Next time, sweethearts, lots of pics.)
<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ships--seaside">
<br /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-16391796366727897112011-07-07T16:01:00.005-05:002011-07-07T16:06:52.912-05:00Video blog madness...I've been spending my time making longer and longer and more and more involved video blogs for one of the yarn stores where I teach. Here's the latest:<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XVual5IO0X8" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="257" width="400"></iframe><br /><br /><br />You can check more out at the oceanofstitches channel on YouTube: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/oceanofstitches">here</a>.<br /><br />Busy, busy me! I've been teaching my tushie off to make ends meet and I love it, but I get super tired! Mind you - it is a good tired.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-76512707052218292782011-06-03T15:50:00.004-05:002011-06-03T16:02:18.451-05:00Progress progresses<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDL4jRTXchcXhU_4M7gzQ4Z-cisfdnnaLBtyB6TRn8K8bqDQAnxulCRqrDj1sepQxjMLdAGiKbAUPxTzyL1kLOSikE8nD5yIOlLkbe5Njg28vXu8Y0GoBKm0tE32tj1IXLVkFjB8oTdRs/s1600/DSC00028.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDL4jRTXchcXhU_4M7gzQ4Z-cisfdnnaLBtyB6TRn8K8bqDQAnxulCRqrDj1sepQxjMLdAGiKbAUPxTzyL1kLOSikE8nD5yIOlLkbe5Njg28vXu8Y0GoBKm0tE32tj1IXLVkFjB8oTdRs/s320/DSC00028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614099334551470498" border="0" /></a>I promised you updates on my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ships--seaside">ships & seaside</a> cowl. Well, here's all I've gotten done so far - but I've been working on other things at the same time. And here are my lovely colors - in lovely Malabrigo. Clockwise from the top left we have Bobby Blue, Emerald, Azul Profundo, and Vaa. The latter has some of those lovely olive colors that I referenced from the Turner painting, <span style="font-style: italic;">Fishermen at Sea </span>(below). And some of the deep inky blues. You can see the stripes from the bottom two are working out well. The light green is just the crochet thread that I used for the provisional cast-on. No one will ever know it was there (except you, if you are reading this.) I chose the lighter emerald green and the light green-blue to be the brief contrast to the dark colors, as Turner did with the foam and reflections on the waves.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyeO6bcwMNqXrhbBZ5Gsda2Bh0BaxJdKbcA-5jmrre4BeWXYtJZJi-_pWUK8tOAIgxh9vo2k1vC4kuQtgIhAg2mh3XoKPpKEgjxe7Dbva31YZpOn8UcrZcRmUTV106xKDthVNKRIZejU/s1600/FishermenatSea_Turner_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyeO6bcwMNqXrhbBZ5Gsda2Bh0BaxJdKbcA-5jmrre4BeWXYtJZJi-_pWUK8tOAIgxh9vo2k1vC4kuQtgIhAg2mh3XoKPpKEgjxe7Dbva31YZpOn8UcrZcRmUTV106xKDthVNKRIZejU/s320/FishermenatSea_Turner_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614099029184971298" border="0" /></a>I have altered the original colors of the pattern, as well as reversing the dark and light tones. Because I can't leave well enough alone.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-39016336965305333842011-06-01T08:52:00.004-05:002011-06-01T08:58:59.539-05:00Ships & Seaside<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPudGtYy91tndrSQ51CVz1x0k92SnzZfCo3Ok0cCoCaSkxwLplIDwUYSHFMbL_hPGqgVkAAA5Hh09JQT9yAkrwpIb8YDen8Ye6hBWFsnKAPI4v7H9-VR-qEWMbx6kTOkyrv1oOfnUcstY/s1600/FishermenatSea_Turner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPudGtYy91tndrSQ51CVz1x0k92SnzZfCo3Ok0cCoCaSkxwLplIDwUYSHFMbL_hPGqgVkAAA5Hh09JQT9yAkrwpIb8YDen8Ye6hBWFsnKAPI4v7H9-VR-qEWMbx6kTOkyrv1oOfnUcstY/s320/FishermenatSea_Turner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613249846168915762" border="0" /></a>I am starting on a lovely cowl as part of the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/tiny-owl-knits">Tiny Owl Knits</a> group Summer 2011 KAL on Ravelry. The ship & seaside cowl. I chose colors based on this J.M.W. Turner painting - stormy, dark, and mysterious. I'll post photos as I work on it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDjx0E4NQZGXl6VMBr72MXBqrcm7UiTZpksx_yy8I-knKTypFGyUX7-zmYjZcemPHxgZ1p779s7P0friFlAlCGJhcqN3fblG5bu5GtA4nky2n2I8IETitoOdQmWhkiMCY6xKYZSNnssU/s1600/FishermenatSea_Turner.jpg"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXi4q8Z5OcYuji2EJZpPeuIyCBOI4jYm6G0Vlt6_lF3-duuc_zEnAzU4D9XiSDPiIcM5H59la0opyfMPEQBr6zFjifWVMJmjGP8jH0ARb-C-xZpfZ2kdtqAK2ba93cxgwKvjWio9F0JlQ/s1600/IMG_0483.JPG"><br /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-66349691318491402452011-05-19T08:35:00.003-05:002011-05-19T08:43:28.057-05:00Baby Luchadora<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn_KHbkLnPYp-N1LNQYHl8j9IqE1wUH6EV_DBzDPjyjNyxlvO5b0XrlJbtF2Ov_fjyreaQUjoHTzlxVOO8Cdpsemp6xQiZbg2K8b1LUzs7mElYkDh_IZLk1ETuMXk73fCHhd2u5-kgF8/s1600/DSC00013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrn_KHbkLnPYp-N1LNQYHl8j9IqE1wUH6EV_DBzDPjyjNyxlvO5b0XrlJbtF2Ov_fjyreaQUjoHTzlxVOO8Cdpsemp6xQiZbg2K8b1LUzs7mElYkDh_IZLk1ETuMXk73fCHhd2u5-kgF8/s320/DSC00013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5608420699620221698" border="0" /></a> This is Rose, in a skull mask, looking like a miniature Mexican wrestler. I crocheted a skull from <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/day-of-the-dead-crochet-skull">this pattern</a>, crocheted around it, and my daughter put it on. An idea was born - baby luchadora. I put ties on it and she decided she must wear it to dinner, AND that we should go to dinner at Torchy's - a great taco place here in Austin, Texas. So, being a mother that encourages flights of fancy, we did.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-55746806694718685502011-05-09T22:52:00.005-05:002011-05-09T23:21:17.537-05:00Tying up loose ends...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6YlG1qqLaUN4i92HcmaQOG1Vof87Q7b8oJiddSJEckI42AgZEIyXMiKgIcSbZlDARjuvkFL3wpbJemSA2YpRigA9WCiDVfhw6tQRphyphenhyphencXnTbsOLMt2PeaKulIuypD8BL3jKzgTydF4w/s1600/IMG_1793.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6YlG1qqLaUN4i92HcmaQOG1Vof87Q7b8oJiddSJEckI42AgZEIyXMiKgIcSbZlDARjuvkFL3wpbJemSA2YpRigA9WCiDVfhw6tQRphyphenhyphencXnTbsOLMt2PeaKulIuypD8BL3jKzgTydF4w/s320/IMG_1793.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604930454910760354" border="0" /></a><br />This is what I spent the last 7 weeks on. Actually, I spent the last 7 weeks making 2 of these. And there is no final picture - because I am a dork and forgot until after I had already delivered them.<br /><br />The project was to reproduce 2 copies of an existing Christmas stocking that was more than 40 years old, from a pattern that is more than 50 years old. I was given a stocking, a photocopy of an old pattern, and asked if I could make 2 new close copies, with new names for new family members. They were knit flat for part (the leg and instep), in the round for part (the toe) intarsia for part (twin scary Santas,) stranded for part (names on both sides, and weird crossed candy canes,) stripes (the toe again,) and 3 jingle bells each. There was a back seam, seams on both of the heel gussets, a braid in 3 colors covering the back seam, and toes that had to conform to the original stocking, not the original pattern.<br /><br />The part above is the section of intarsia where I was using 9 bobbins, butterflies, and balls of yarn for something less than 1 foot wide. It would have been 11, but I chose to add the 2 pairs of single stitch eyes in duplicate stitch.<br /><br />The colors of the original were hard to match, but the person that commissioned them was quite pleased, thankfully. They are odd, but vintage. Interesting to make, but the finishing took about 10 hours - each.<br /><br />I am trying this month to design 2 more crocheted bodice dresses, but I also am working on restoring an old crocheted afghan (I'm guessing from the early 1950s.) I WILL photograph the process, and I can tell it will be a very interesting challenge. Starting with loom-made daisies, I will be re-making parts of it, and I will then be repairing other parts. I was given lovely wool to match colors with, and I am so excited. Last month, I also worked on repairing another old crocheted afghan. I love repairs. It makes me want even more to go back to school to do textile conservation. We shall see...<br /><br />In other news, I spent a couple of lovely evenings with a crowd of crochet folk. I was asked if I would be interested in starting up a local crochet guild, and I said yes. If you are in the Austin area, The Knitting Nest on South Congress will be hosting a gathering of people interested, and we will form a local chapter of the Crochet Guild of America. Save the date: Sunday, June 12, at 2pm. There will be food! Call Stacy at (512) 291-8866 to sign up, so we know how many to expect.<br /><br />I had to cancel the Countdown to Harry Potter classes that I had designed - next to no response. I suspect Voldemort at work here.<br /><br />I actually got on Twitter (@oceanofstitches) and I find that all of my postings are almost in Haiku form. My brain does not thrive perhaps on the 140 character limit. Or is it less?<br /><br />I have asked my husband to keep an eye on my facebook and twitter accounts. I need to post more, and it seems easier to tell him what to post than sitting here assuming anyone is reading what I say. Right now, I am doing that but I might have him post soon. This space is mine, however. I may have him put up some photos for quick posts, but probably not.<br /><br />I am trying to come up with classes to teach at both shops for the rest of the year. I am also trying to come up with whole series of knit and crochet courses. Occasionally, I sleep.<br /><br />So there are my loose ends for the month. Let's hope I will be free enough to post more often!Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-10432432813729711922011-04-08T23:08:00.004-05:002011-04-08T23:15:50.094-05:00In the meantime...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfy1ZxC5e5CRyYEURqR_-6EWgq7EJ2QHHDatZWiLNHWf7sOQdmH25K9xXoP7WDG5mInl4VMrGmG7tvCFXjO6vIpio2DZJMyi-5jJqOQDNcIZkyAXI-z4bYSNwjbsi4QhFAjVNPOObwex8/s1600/IMG_1736.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfy1ZxC5e5CRyYEURqR_-6EWgq7EJ2QHHDatZWiLNHWf7sOQdmH25K9xXoP7WDG5mInl4VMrGmG7tvCFXjO6vIpio2DZJMyi-5jJqOQDNcIZkyAXI-z4bYSNwjbsi4QhFAjVNPOObwex8/s320/IMG_1736.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593431031036862466" border="0" /></a><br />While everything else has been going on, I have managed to design a little sundress with a crocheted top and a fabric bottom - children's sizes 2-8 (US). The pattern includes a full, photo-rich written tutorial on how to measure for and attach the fabric skirt to the crocheted top. This little mannequin is sitting in front of The Knitting Nest in Austin, Texas - looking all calm, cool and collected in the already hot weather here. <br /><br />You can purchase the pattern from Ravelry for $5: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/63152"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a>.<br /><br />I will be teaching a class on making this dress this Sunday, April 10th, also at The Knitting Nest. If you are interested, call Stacy at (512) 291-8866 to reserve your spot.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-44230082053445985572011-04-01T23:08:00.003-05:002011-04-01T23:26:38.061-05:00Just when I thought...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDuPKWCyZWafjaPJbRuV9I7UQnVsY6ZfxN5vZZctjqADTXUZoBCvAfAP0n6y1nckFQunKHbGc_gKm1flTOhVanT-8TdRA-uCdK6rKdvEX1r2I75vc6h8EaU2ZVr_m0_8zzqefSRopE7U/s1600/IMG_1632.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDuPKWCyZWafjaPJbRuV9I7UQnVsY6ZfxN5vZZctjqADTXUZoBCvAfAP0n6y1nckFQunKHbGc_gKm1flTOhVanT-8TdRA-uCdK6rKdvEX1r2I75vc6h8EaU2ZVr_m0_8zzqefSRopE7U/s320/IMG_1632.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590834962011655554" border="0" /></a>Just when I thought my kids had been through enough, something else gets tossed our way. Today, I got news that my sweet baby, Rose, has scoliosis (not a big deal) caused by a rare congenital spinal defect (quite a big deal.) Butterfly vertebra - never heard of it? Me neither, until today. Sounds pretty, but it is not. Not a stranger to rare spinal defects (a different one runs in my family) this one has floored me all day. We get to see a battery of doctors next week to see what can be done and when. As she is only 2-and-a-half, she might be too little still to do much yet. I am so upset I don't know what to do. <br /><br />All I have ever wished for my kids is that they have a safe and happy life, and never to have to experience the chronic pain issues and debilitating movement problems that spinal problems can cause. I don't get to give that to her, and it breaks my heart.<br /><br />I have been super busy crafting away trying to provide for my family. I will be even busier, I have a feeling. I plan to keep blogging away - if only to vent a little bit.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-79902457180959211692011-03-01T08:14:00.004-06:002011-03-01T12:53:45.025-06:00Crocheted goodness<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CSgV5kFW8c961NqpYsr0M3HGQdP4HhXxpSGmYAw3AogAkAv2szW3F2UWMOfgLo1oXxm6PyuMJ9XRWtulH4fOTNicS1zm49rAVH2VLQMqUfu8WINgrWAYGVE-AKGZGyVDeuu-WfJYeg0/s1600/IMG_1598.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CSgV5kFW8c961NqpYsr0M3HGQdP4HhXxpSGmYAw3AogAkAv2szW3F2UWMOfgLo1oXxm6PyuMJ9XRWtulH4fOTNicS1zm49rAVH2VLQMqUfu8WINgrWAYGVE-AKGZGyVDeuu-WfJYeg0/s320/IMG_1598.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579114967750950930" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I finished weaving all of the ends of this square yesterday, and it turned out beautifully, if I do say so myself. The pattern is <a href="http://biguhandmade2.blogspot.com/2011/01/granny-nenufar-waterflower-granny.html">Granny Nenufar (Waterflower Granny) by Bigu Osuna</a> and I made it for the March Afghan Square as part of the 2011 Afghan Square Crochet-Along at The Knitting Nest here in Austin. I just loved it so much that I had to share it with you. I will be teaching a class on making this square on March 9th at <a href="http://www.theknittingnestaustin.com/">The Knitting Nest</a> and I can't wait!<br /><br />Is it weird to get this worked up over a 3D flower square?Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-71392303695634772592011-02-25T08:43:00.004-06:002011-02-25T09:13:52.711-06:00I delve into Tunisian Crochet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUAQ0fzJoankeFJ1Ra1hHYzXlr29QRHOPVBTUSOunfvlIfgy2UUwEDGuh1DUJyEB3s6hxg0njZbEyNs3EyYwKGMPd3jxFuz3JvaO2F-OYQvrPHfSjhhrUwcpiHSKl8AcoGwSY5I2a1XQ/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUAQ0fzJoankeFJ1Ra1hHYzXlr29QRHOPVBTUSOunfvlIfgy2UUwEDGuh1DUJyEB3s6hxg0njZbEyNs3EyYwKGMPd3jxFuz3JvaO2F-OYQvrPHfSjhhrUwcpiHSKl8AcoGwSY5I2a1XQ/s320/IMG_1536.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577638256629941554" border="0" /></a><br />I am undecided about Tunisian crochet (also called afghan crochet.) It is easy, satisfying in it's simplicity, and has a squishy, dense texture. It is also FAST. Sounds great, right? My reservation is in the fact that it is repetitive. Forward row, return row - again and again. But it's speed makes up for that. And it's density makes it ideal for bags - and in this case, an iPad case. Mind you, the fact that I used lovely alpaca/wool yarn in this project helps a BUNCH. In the pattern I have included instructions for creating an iPad case, a large Kindle case, and a small clutch purse.<br /><br />Get your copy of the pattern for $2: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/59228"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a> (Ravelry PDF download)Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-79308900655754502952011-02-17T12:44:00.006-06:002011-02-17T13:25:01.337-06:00Owls Two Ways (free pattern)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLy-ntP6NSyMo4QQlGFP49AsRowiUwzeJbDxENeE0S21FwuqybWUxoTCkwkC2k883H52dG57Ex1rTVDIoaUoMkhuamx8rtZYYhKVadT0GSWx54Y4CqRDpuIlsY1BtFuvOIYCU-F1Cm4hQ/s1600/IMG_1579.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLy-ntP6NSyMo4QQlGFP49AsRowiUwzeJbDxENeE0S21FwuqybWUxoTCkwkC2k883H52dG57Ex1rTVDIoaUoMkhuamx8rtZYYhKVadT0GSWx54Y4CqRDpuIlsY1BtFuvOIYCU-F1Cm4hQ/s320/IMG_1579.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574731352893555602" border="0" /></a><br />I just popped in to post up a duet of free patterns - more owls. I created a pair of universal patterns for simple one-piece owls, one knitted and one crocheted. These 2 patterns are together in one PDF for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/owls-two-ways-knit"><span style="font-size:180%;">FREE DOWNLOAD HERE!</span></a> (Ravelry.com PDF download.)<br /><br />Yay! More Owls!Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-49248727122855606922011-02-15T09:22:00.005-06:002011-02-15T09:38:33.091-06:00New Post!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ABYKmjJ5q9S9vGUHNu1IDCYbPmcK5Aq6YApVcP92FK-yrYNYDhN7Q7CW5g0KVKbT1pafQrxowyNEVOanXx5C_OcwccGA90U9qai8qXNqliwdGTcqWIQODPjrk3lQW9kZsr97VlCBG0g/s1600/IMG_1575.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ABYKmjJ5q9S9vGUHNu1IDCYbPmcK5Aq6YApVcP92FK-yrYNYDhN7Q7CW5g0KVKbT1pafQrxowyNEVOanXx5C_OcwccGA90U9qai8qXNqliwdGTcqWIQODPjrk3lQW9kZsr97VlCBG0g/s320/IMG_1575.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573937451635767250" border="0" /></a><br />Whew! It has been a whirlwind of a month! First of all - Happy Day After Valentine's Day! I made these little crochet hearts for my family yesterday as my gift. But we celebrate for a few days, as love is important every day. I hope you are having a break in the cold (or hot) weather wherever you are. It has been crazy here! I live in central Texas, and while it gets a little cold here in the winter, it doesn't normally get below freezing for days and days! I know the weather has been horrid so far this year, but I hope it has given you a chance to snuggle up and craft.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMMX2kdqX2EOQkrsRWkJzBgmF3UHGIHBvxM2fX6WZMUYI77robWLgAFQ0s6aE5nelWIK12bSrfbynpxdyQjc-SOx2E9RuaRy2dp9dmCumEZCPL4DPV05ym6BnkA5YNa1eQBlVCqmpaUY/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMMX2kdqX2EOQkrsRWkJzBgmF3UHGIHBvxM2fX6WZMUYI77robWLgAFQ0s6aE5nelWIK12bSrfbynpxdyQjc-SOx2E9RuaRy2dp9dmCumEZCPL4DPV05ym6BnkA5YNa1eQBlVCqmpaUY/s320/IMG_1572.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573937294256935170" border="0" /></a><br />I have been BUSY sample making for both of the yarn shops where I teach. I just found out yesterday (by randomly checking the schedule) that I will be teaching an extra class at the end of the month. So I whipped up an amigurumi cupcake (and a pattern) just for that. I might even be tempted to post it up.<br /><br />In other news, I have been writing a blog post for a locally-based garment company - Emilime. I hope to write more of those soon, as well as getting a chance to blog here more.<br /><br />Also, I have jumped into writing knitting patterns with charts using a bit of computer software. I will post soon to review the software I got last week.<br /><br />Back to sample making - the set I am doing now is for a 5 month series - Countdown to Harry Potter - 8 Harry Potter-themed projects that are a mixture of knitted projects and crocheted projects. (Including 3 designs from me!) Check back soon for a full list of patterns!<br /><br />Happy crafting!Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-75175518041374872002011-01-09T09:02:00.008-06:002011-01-09T09:59:47.409-06:00Granny's Valentine Bag Pattern<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7aztNg8GeclOn8j1nrEVFDJItp-mC0iv1IV4nxvJkrokavX-zB8T8KjCWxKsEvpAyepkgWj2jmyuuZ9Mp0HjGM0IV4pRpFHdhN2fhXoBQ-FZtyx6YXPU3cNrwmG881FnFUOLNFPDCtw/s1600/IMG_1494.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7aztNg8GeclOn8j1nrEVFDJItp-mC0iv1IV4nxvJkrokavX-zB8T8KjCWxKsEvpAyepkgWj2jmyuuZ9Mp0HjGM0IV4pRpFHdhN2fhXoBQ-FZtyx6YXPU3cNrwmG881FnFUOLNFPDCtw/s320/IMG_1494.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560202530757632802" border="0" /></a>I crocheted this bag to demonstrate 4 different granny styles of crochet. It is in 4 colors of Cascade Yarns Luna - lovely, soft cotton yarn that was a dream to crochet. It made me think of my own granny - these were her favorite colors, and she loved hearts (see heart side of the bag below.) The parts of the bag were inspired by <a href="http://crochethealingandraymond.wordpress.com/2010/11/11/revisiting-the-granny-mandala/">Granny Mandala by Crochet with Raymond</a>, the <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/2010/05/granny-striping.html">Granny Stripe Blanket by Lucy of Attic24</a>, the <a href="http://www.heartmadeblessings.org/Patterns/Centerheart.php">Center Heart Square by Ginger Badger</a>. The other side is a basic granny square, for which there are many patterns. I give detailed instructions on crocheting each piece and on the assembly of the bag in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/grannys-valentine-bag"><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">FREE</span></a> pattern.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFDA-dEOp22_1Y7U99nrrIZ2jKQn5VfxCCd2rnTQyQrHJOrYeUaPihmeDdW_ALjk0ECqlrJgNw51mqJt7hRt9uaTFljMxdevJZiEzy9LFOr04KAonSVpeo9vCKNEE_J2ciB9A1m9bEGE/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEFDA-dEOp22_1Y7U99nrrIZ2jKQn5VfxCCd2rnTQyQrHJOrYeUaPihmeDdW_ALjk0ECqlrJgNw51mqJt7hRt9uaTFljMxdevJZiEzy9LFOr04KAonSVpeo9vCKNEE_J2ciB9A1m9bEGE/s320/IMG_1491.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560202358617303330" border="0" /></a>Here is the lovely Granny Mandala bottom.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIKquDI09ASBm4WmkB1TiNXip8YxJ6BbeS_MvqKAZ73RhxmP_ur32MKtj5_INmC6P-0v-5TBP1sE3rqH-T6SdKvuWpE22ITmg-SBQ3pxGgBdQTUORmsj5tF78ogWDWXv1atN7if852uw/s1600/IMG_1492.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfIKquDI09ASBm4WmkB1TiNXip8YxJ6BbeS_MvqKAZ73RhxmP_ur32MKtj5_INmC6P-0v-5TBP1sE3rqH-T6SdKvuWpE22ITmg-SBQ3pxGgBdQTUORmsj5tF78ogWDWXv1atN7if852uw/s320/IMG_1492.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560202206051719122" border="0" /></a>The traditional Granny Square side.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrICo83Pr-e5CAZu2sGyMTGJe_p1Gqua3BAJN3ZOMU0BpMLMcUDAEqkyNgnWgi-OZHz6BFIPUlSYBIw6fViEVnXFs2OLrNDAtUpiHBoK2pStGv87aLxEVnrqeukEtPcg4Zk7RQzxyocVk/s1600/IMG_1493.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrICo83Pr-e5CAZu2sGyMTGJe_p1Gqua3BAJN3ZOMU0BpMLMcUDAEqkyNgnWgi-OZHz6BFIPUlSYBIw6fViEVnXFs2OLrNDAtUpiHBoK2pStGv87aLxEVnrqeukEtPcg4Zk7RQzxyocVk/s320/IMG_1493.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560202041639752850" border="0" /></a>And last, the lovely Center Heart side.<br /><br />I do give options for creating two regular granny square, or heart square sides. You can see the granny stripe strap in most of the photos.<br /><br />Download it <span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/grannys-valentine-bag">HERE</a></span> on Ravelry.<br /><br /><br /><a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/"><img alt="Creative Commons License" style="border-width: 0pt;" src="http://i.creativecommons.org/l/by-nc-sa/3.0/88x31.png" /></a><br /><span dct="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" href="http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Text" property="dct:title" rel="dct:type">Granny's Valentine Bag</span> by <a cc="http://creativecommons.org/ns#" href="http://oceanofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/01/grannys-valentine-bag-pattern.html" property="cc:attributionName" rel="cc:attributionURL">Ana Clerc</a> is licensed under a <a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License</a>.<br />Based on a work at <a dct="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" href="http://oceanofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/01/grannys-valentine-bag-pattern.html" rel="dct:source">oceanofstitches.blogspot.com</a>.<br />Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at <a cc="http://creativecommons.org/ns#" href="http://oceanofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/01/grannys-valentine-bag-pattern.html" rel="cc:morePermissions">http://oceanofstitches.blogspot.com/2011/01/grannys-valentine-bag-pattern.html</a>.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-39493201992713413882011-01-08T08:50:00.006-06:002011-03-07T20:29:15.411-06:00Bubo Owl Pattern<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYgSpXcdi2WZOh7pNGN_uDwIc8j9znjclScAv4NhBs69RTliKTttGwqkAvtLXZ1fOoobPA2eb46uvqSvz2F-k45z7OkGWXtC8WmmPOQkH4WSQPUCl1PHVIHmLa_f4F3FwxTTUa9ENiho/s1600/IMG_1438.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYgSpXcdi2WZOh7pNGN_uDwIc8j9znjclScAv4NhBs69RTliKTttGwqkAvtLXZ1fOoobPA2eb46uvqSvz2F-k45z7OkGWXtC8WmmPOQkH4WSQPUCl1PHVIHmLa_f4F3FwxTTUa9ENiho/s320/IMG_1438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559827685120995234" border="0" /></a>I have just finished with ANOTHER crochet pattern (I know!) It is for a Snowy Owl, or any of the owls in the Bubo genus. It is just a nice owl-shaped owl, and I originally made it for my son, Badger. I took notes the whole time I was stitching, and it turned out so well that I want to make the pattern available.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">Errata: I found 3 errors in the pattern and these have been corrected. Any new download will have the corrected version, and all those who have bought a copy have been sent a new version.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">In the directions to the body of the owl: Line 29: stitch count should read (30). Line 30: count is (24). Line 31: Count is (18). Line 32: Count is (12). Added Line 33: sc2tog to the end of the round (6)</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">In the directions to the wings: Line 5: repeat bracketed instructions twice. Line 8: sc 6 instead of 7.</span><br />You can download it here for $5: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/54656"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-3246086820937627152011-01-06T18:06:00.005-06:002011-01-06T18:52:43.079-06:00Snow Arches Pattern<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQk5wEfOwDU-gqZ1wMGMD8MYeVu0tSt2Y6UnzEWt_BpE_uFsrwzm_0PG0b44tl9sB-TvX4B9AcW-L6iHbCtVbMYdbyNvijr2JNakWJAzEwGPkbqwDTsnT2qvtTiNUxYF8jLwHpRHW6t_8/s1600/IMG_1482.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQk5wEfOwDU-gqZ1wMGMD8MYeVu0tSt2Y6UnzEWt_BpE_uFsrwzm_0PG0b44tl9sB-TvX4B9AcW-L6iHbCtVbMYdbyNvijr2JNakWJAzEwGPkbqwDTsnT2qvtTiNUxYF8jLwHpRHW6t_8/s320/IMG_1482.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559228858883966242" border="0" /></a><br />I just finished writing up the pattern for his afghan block that I designed for the January installment of the afghan block crochet-along at The Knitting Nest in Austin, TX. I have never done a design for an afghan block, other than a granny square - so I was surprised that it worked so well. Pretty, no?<br /><br />Download it for $3, HERE: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/ana-clerc-designs/54524"><img src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" border="0" /></a>Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-10413730175122514572010-12-25T09:59:00.005-06:002010-12-25T10:08:59.692-06:00Happy Owlidays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Rrxc_QB2iRrw6ffkeGN-_lHAw2vrRKaQwls7cibhDgfasyMkm6nENoEAki36E2WAt1QUHJRSWhZkp56gCD9X0KzqWRg-FQF2jOpWm2BGZ4o7UjFSgiFC6Hlady7izirWlJ_7xX38PBM/s1600/dsc_5023a.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Rrxc_QB2iRrw6ffkeGN-_lHAw2vrRKaQwls7cibhDgfasyMkm6nENoEAki36E2WAt1QUHJRSWhZkp56gCD9X0KzqWRg-FQF2jOpWm2BGZ4o7UjFSgiFC6Hlady7izirWlJ_7xX38PBM/s320/dsc_5023a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554650517177118818" border="0" /></a>I hope everyone is having or has had a lovely holiday! I am calling mine an owliday, as I saw one of these fly over the window and land on the roof of my mom's home as we were opening gifts yesterday. It was absolutely beautiful. My mother has been telling me that she has owls, and from her description of the call and from the one I saw yesterday, I can tell you definitely that it is a Great Horned Owl. My absolute favorite!<br /><br />Which makes the animals that I made for my kids even more fortuitous! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXNKbNbBlNSxClAKmfuEhyGF_ZdJZjjE2Nuv1c-uGm6KCn9HUmXJniHC41mEOabyQ4c4nXwG-P9DldIE8hcb9qk02hoyL2-7fbGLhvbSE2tMdiUcdNf-jcgcyRrEi-9uzmHSW0WSk5nDM/s1600/IMG_1438.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXNKbNbBlNSxClAKmfuEhyGF_ZdJZjjE2Nuv1c-uGm6KCn9HUmXJniHC41mEOabyQ4c4nXwG-P9DldIE8hcb9qk02hoyL2-7fbGLhvbSE2tMdiUcdNf-jcgcyRrEi-9uzmHSW0WSk5nDM/s320/IMG_1438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554650421680928642" border="0" /></a>Here is the Snowy Owl I made for Badger. It has barred feather marking on it's head and back. I will be publishing this pattern on Ravelry next week.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Ww-7H0VqUI4hdo6OWinugwXHOnSdgLpbqUZZ5V5BMmCueAzDnUrtmRq7ufOU6nmvA_4TTbaSSs-_t5YlULDS5A3l7_LjyVPxpp4cJ4tpnZSATo_BQUCj8bR0mCw1F8k0K_u4s91h0o/s1600/IMG_1412.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0Ww-7H0VqUI4hdo6OWinugwXHOnSdgLpbqUZZ5V5BMmCueAzDnUrtmRq7ufOU6nmvA_4TTbaSSs-_t5YlULDS5A3l7_LjyVPxpp4cJ4tpnZSATo_BQUCj8bR0mCw1F8k0K_u4s91h0o/s320/IMG_1412.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554650295370174178" border="0" /></a>Here is the sweet little Horned Owl I made for Rose. The pattern is <a href="http://littlegreen.typepad.com/romansock/instant-crochetification.html">Owlets</a> from the Roman Sock Blog. Mine came out a little shorter and fatter than I intended, but it is so sweet and soft.<br /><br />So happy owlidays, everyone! Hoo!Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-43795197989520789612010-12-15T13:27:00.003-06:002010-12-15T13:32:24.567-06:00A Gift for You!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9HFlLJ8tMr6Y_I-Fdze7hMfR1quyDdKYpap4DaPQwCEAnzc-3F5QOQLz83xIhkAdjEg3pOb5D9jF4jcG9cbzeIjFGqFaeLZN0J4tm0vk8gwmr2ZfsnIepWbMdFb4rS5HtBaqFGdG6mQ/s1600/IMG_1260.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9HFlLJ8tMr6Y_I-Fdze7hMfR1quyDdKYpap4DaPQwCEAnzc-3F5QOQLz83xIhkAdjEg3pOb5D9jF4jcG9cbzeIjFGqFaeLZN0J4tm0vk8gwmr2ZfsnIepWbMdFb4rS5HtBaqFGdG6mQ/s320/IMG_1260.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550993458340824898" border="0" /></a><br />For all of you who have commented, and for all of you who have lurked, I have a gift!<br /><br />From now until midnight on December 31st, get 15% off everything in my Etsy shop (see sidebar.) Enter the coupon code SWEETS4THESWEET when you checkout. <br /><br />Thank you for reading my random musings!<br /><br />Love,<br />Ana.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5052604614838352262.post-11364299358576937682010-12-08T22:53:00.003-06:002010-12-08T23:06:50.290-06:00The end (of December) is nigh!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKwVaKzoLIxUrXG_qM9-wrbctnYbIotBJDOfTmTphiKA-wEZ47mzC26izOEezkar8oKQ7p9LQmYITIAzHKloJNxi1NppyoBZIo_dT39Z8zfwx2htxiHcoBX5V972Uppgj2H6VX1uqVvs/s1600/IMG_1346.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKwVaKzoLIxUrXG_qM9-wrbctnYbIotBJDOfTmTphiKA-wEZ47mzC26izOEezkar8oKQ7p9LQmYITIAzHKloJNxi1NppyoBZIo_dT39Z8zfwx2htxiHcoBX5V972Uppgj2H6VX1uqVvs/s320/IMG_1346.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548543843810883714" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Oh, holy cow, the clock, the clock is ticking...<br /><br />That is the way it sounds in my brain anyway. With all of the craft show making and all of the sample knitting and crocheting, and all of the pattern writing I am WAY, WAY, WAY behind in the gift making. It would not feel so bad if had actually made more sales at the craft shows or if more than one person had signed up for the ornament classes (which were subsequently canceled.) I know that the economy is still crummy, but oh, this is not fun at all. I did schedule some last-minute knitting classes, and got a little bit of swatch knitting done for a knitwear company. These are both good, as it means that we can buy food.<br /><br />However, of all the gifts that I had to make, I have gotten 3 done. And I can't count two, as my kids needed their fingerless mittens today, so I gave them to them early. I will be able to get a few done - but no sweaters for either. Luckily, I was going to knit them quite a bit larger than I needed to, so I can get them done during the summer, and they can wear them next winter. Still, I am bummed. I will get most of their other toys done, but my mom might have to wait 2 weeks for her cowl, and my brother will be waiting on his box at the end of January to the beginning of February. Luckily, it will still be cold in Minnesota. When did I ever expect to use that phrase?<br /><br />So wish me luck, and forgive me not posting much in the last month. I have been working my fingers to the bone - and have little to show for it. I will not be posting much this month either, as I spend about 5 minutes a day checking my email and then get right back to the making. I miss looking in on everyone, and if I don't say it before the end of the month,<br /><br />My Very Best Wishes on the Holiday that you Choose to Celebrate (I think that covers all my bases.)<br /><br />Ana.Anahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09332433875149524235noreply@blogger.com1